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MIRI – Parents have to report their children if they abuse drugs, even if it is difficult to do so, as this is the only way to keep up the fight against drug addiction, a local officer told families in rural areas today.
Bau district officer Constantine Gerald Jonas said reporting children to the authorities will allow swift help, while keeping silent will not help anyone.
This comes as cases of addiction are increasing, even in villages and longhouses in rural areas.
“Parents must play a proactive role in stopping the drug problem, which is getting serious everywhere.
“Parents and families have no choice but to report to the authorities if anyone is involved with drugs.
“While the drug menace cannot be totally wiped out from society, it can be greatly reduced if parents and families stop it swiftly within their homes,” Jonas told villagers at a substance abuse awareness campaign in the Bau community hall today.
Her remarks follow recent news of a 17-year-old boy who ran amok in a kindergarten in Sarikei while high on drugs.
The teenager destroyed property and hurt a teacher, and was later arrested.
The teacher who was injured had been shielding kindergarten children as the teenager tried to approach them.
State Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah later said the incident showed how serious drug addiction had become in Sarawak.
The rampage, which was recorded on video and shared widely on social media, led to the teenager’s arrest on June 14.
Sarikei police chief Awang Arfian Bujang yesterday said the teenager would be sentenced as a juvenile. – The Vibes, June 30, 2023